Neighborhood Attractions

Alcatraz - Don't miss a chance to travel across the Bay from nearby Fisherman's Wharf to the eerie and fascinating Alcatraz Island. The ferry ticket includes entrance the former prison and a captivating cell house audio tour. Be sure to reserve in advance, it books quickly during summer months.

Fort Mason and Marina Green - Right in the hostel's lush backyard, Fort Mason hosts thousands of events each year from farmer's markets to craft fairs, Oysterfest to Oktoberfest. It's also home to the Mexican Museum, Museo Italo Americano, BATS Improv Theatre, and several other non-profits. The grass in the park is arguably the most luxurious in the city.

Exploratorium and Palace of Fine Arts - Curious adults and kids alike will enjoy this museum, which intertwines science and art. Located next to the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts, an outdoor space that hosts lectures, music performances, and other events, some for free.

Angel Island - From Pier 41, you can catch the ferry to beautiful Angel Island, a State Park and former immigration station ripe for exploration by foot, bike, or tram.

Fisherman's Wharf - The carnival-like atmosphere attracts tourists as do the sea lions and kitschy museums. Watch out for the Bushman.

Ghirardelli Square - The red-bricked shopping center used to be Ghiradelli Chocolate's factory until the 1960s; luckily you can still sample some delectable chocolate treats.

Crissy Field - Stroll the promenade, jog to the Golden Gate Bridge, or join in a volleyball game with locals.

Worth the extra effort!

Cycle the Golden Gate Bridge - Cycle (or walk) across and take a ferry back from Sausalito! Nothing matches the experience of crossing the colossal Golden Gate Bridge. Hostel guests can get deep discounts on local bike rentals, see below for details.

Crookedest Street in the World - Stroll down Lombard Street -- the most crooked street in the world -- and gaze at beautiful Victorian mansions while doing so.

Presidio - Eleven miles of hiking trails wind through the Presidio; there's also a golf course and fabulous Baker Beach, which has panoramic views of the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Coit Tower - Head up to Telegraph Hill for a fantastic vantage point of the city. On a gloriously sunny day, the scenery feels more Mediterranean than American. Take Greenwich Avenue or the Filbert Street steps to get there.

Eats

If you want to stick close to home, the hostel has an on-site cafe serving three meals a day. Cafe Franco dishes up our free continental breakfast, in addition to fresh, mostly organic sandwiches, entrees, and more -- all with bay views!

First Cup - Coffee, bagels, sandwiches, and run by really nice people.

Golden Boy Pizza - Granted, this is a bit of a walk (or a MUNI ride) from the hostel, but it's worth the trek for cheap squares of delicious pizza. Settle in with a pint at the bar and watch the character of North Beach (Little Italy) unfold.

Check for half-price tickets on tixbayarea.com or at the walk-up ticket booth in Union Square. Also try goldstar.com for huge discounts on various San Francisco events.

BATS Improv Theatre - Shows feature a surprising mix of improv comedy and theatre. Accolades over the last few years include the Bay Area's "Best Theater Company," "Best Comedy Troupe," "Best First Date Spot," and more.